September in Istria: why it is our favourite month

In short

September in Istria still feels like summer: the sea averages about 23 °C, days are warm and evenings mild, but the crowds and traffic of August are gone. It is harvest time for grapes, the white truffle season begins, and outside June to August our villas can be booked for 6 nights or more with any arrival day.

Ask us when to come, and the answer is usually September. The sea has had all summer to warm up, the light softens, families with school-age children have gone home, and the roads and beaches are quiet again. Istria feels relaxed and generous.

The weather

Sea: about 23 °C on average, close to June. The first half of the month is often warmer still.
Air: warm, sunny days and mild evenings; late in the month the first autumn storms may arrive.
Light: golden and clear, perfect for photographs and long dinners outside.

See our weather and sea temperature guide for every month.

Fewer people

Most European school holidays end in late August or early September. After that:

Beaches have space again, even at midday.
Old towns like Poreč, Rovinj and Motovun are easier to enjoy.
Roads and car parks are quieter, including on Saturdays.

Harvest season

September is grape harvest time. Vineyards across Istria are busy, and you will see tractors loaded with grapes on the country roads. Many wineries welcome visitors, though they may be busy during the harvest itself, so book ahead. Read our guide to Istrian wine.

Figs and late peaches are at their best at the market, and the first chestnuts appear late in the month.

The truffle season begins

The white truffle season opens in early September, and the truffle towns of the Mirna valley begin their autumn programme of events. See our guide to truffle season in Istria.

Better value and flexible stays

Prices at many places fall after the peak of July and August. At our villas, the summer rule of Saturday to Saturday stays applies only from June to August. From September, you can book 6 nights or more and arrive on any day, which makes it easier to fit flights and school calendars. Read about how our stays work.

What to do in September

Swim in the morning, explore inland in the afternoon.
Take a boat to the Lim bay without the summer crowds.
Walk or cycle the Parenzana trail on a cooler day.
Visit Motovun and Grožnjan on a hill towns day trip.
Spend a day on the Slovenian coast in Piran.

What to keep in mind

Seasonal closures: water parks and some beach bars close in mid to late September.
Shorter days: sunset is earlier than in July, so plan sunset drinks around 19:00.
Weather: the odd rainy day is possible, especially late in the month. Our rainy day ideas will help.

Book September early

Because it is such a good month, September fills up with couples, walkers and groups of friends. Check dates for Villa Duga, Villa Bina and Villa Cvita Domenica and send us a request.

Opening times, timetables and prices change from year to year, so check them with the venue before you go.

Questions and answers

Is the sea warm enough to swim in September?

Yes. The average sea temperature around Poreč in September is about 23 °C, close to June, and often warmer in the first half of the month.

Is September cheaper than August in Istria?

Generally yes. Accommodation prices drop after the peak weeks of July and August, and our own villa prices fall into lower seasons from early September.

Is everything still open in September?

Most restaurants, beach bars and sights stay open through September. Water parks and some seasonal services close in mid to late September, so check if you plan to visit.

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